Judges 9:49
Judges 9:49 in Multiple Translations
So each man also cut his own branch and followed Abimelech. Then they piled the branches against the inner chamber and set it on fire above them, killing everyone in the tower of Shechem, about a thousand men and women.
And all the people likewise cut down every man his bough, and followed Abimelech, and put them to the hold, and set the hold on fire upon them; so that all the men of the tower of Shechem died also, about a thousand men and women.
And all the people likewise cut down every man his bough, and followed Abimelech, and put them to the stronghold, and set the stronghold on fire upon them; so that all the men of the tower of Shechem died also, about a thousand men and women.
So all the people got branches, every man cutting down a branch, and they went with Abimelech at their head and, massing the branches against the inner room, put fire to the room over them; so all those who were in the tower of Shechem, about a thousand men and women, were burned to death with it.
Each of them cut down a branch and followed Abimelech. They placed the branches against the strongroom and set it on fire. So all the people who lived in the tower of Shechem died, around one thousand men and women.
Then all the people also cut downe euery man his bough, and followed Abimelech, and put them to the holde, and set the holde on fire with them: so all the men of the towre of Shechem dyed also, about a thousand men and women.
And all the people also cut down each one his bough, and go after Abimelech, and set [them] at the high place, and burn by these the high place with fire, and also all the men of the tower of Shechem die, about a thousand men and women.
All the people likewise each cut down his bough, followed Abimelech, and put them at the base of the stronghold, and set the stronghold on fire over them, so that all the people of the tower of Shechem died also, about a thousand men and women.
And all the people likewise cut down every man his bough, and followed Abimelech, and put them to the hold, and set the hold on fire upon them: so that all the men of the tower of Shechem died also, about a thousand men and women.
So they cut down boughs from the trees, every man as fast as he could, and followed their leader. And surrounding the fort they set it on fire: and so it came to pass that with the smoke and with the fire a thousand persons were killed, men and women together, of the inhabitants of the tower of Sichem.
So his men all cut branches then carried them down the mountain, following Abimelech. They went to the fortress and piled the branches against its walls. Then they kindled a fire, and the fire burned down the fortress and killed all the people who were inside. So all the people who were inside the fortress—about 1,000 men and women—died.
Berean Amplified Bible — Judges 9:49
BAB
Word Study
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Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.
Judges 9:49 Interlinear (Deep Study)
BIB
HEB
וַ/יִּכְרְת֨וּ
גַם
כָּל
הָ/עָ֜ם
אִ֣ישׁ
שׂוֹכֹ֗/ה
וַ/יֵּ֨לְכ֜וּ
אַחֲרֵ֤י
אֲבִימֶ֨לֶךְ֙
וַ/יָּשִׂ֣ימוּ
עַֽל
הַ/צְּרִ֔יחַ
וַ/יַּצִּ֧יתוּ
עֲלֵי/הֶ֛ם
אֶֽת
הַ/צְּרִ֖יחַ
בָּ/אֵ֑שׁ
וַ/יָּמֻ֜תוּ
גַּ֣ם
כָּל
אַנְשֵׁ֧י
מִֽגְדַּל
שְׁכֶ֛ם
כְּ/אֶ֖לֶף
אִ֥ישׁ
וְ/אִשָּֽׁה
וַ/יִּכְרְת֨וּ
kârath
H3772
to cut
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3mp
גַם
gam
H1571
also
Adv
כָּל
kôl
H3605
all
N-ms
הָ/עָ֜ם
ʻam
H5971
Amaw
Art | N-ms
אִ֣ישׁ
ʼîysh
H376
man
N-ms
שׂוֹכֹ֗/ה
sôwk
H7754
branch
N-ms | Suff
וַ/יֵּ֨לְכ֜וּ
yâlak
H3212
to walk
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3mp
אַחֲרֵ֤י
ʼachar
H310
after
Prep
אֲבִימֶ֨לֶךְ֙
ʼĂbîymelek
H40
Ahimelech
N-proper
וַ/יָּשִׂ֣ימוּ
sûwm
H7760
to set
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3mp
עַֽל
ʻal
H5921
upon
Prep
הַ/צְּרִ֔יחַ
tsᵉrîyach
H6877
stronghold
Art | N-ms
וַ/יַּצִּ֧יתוּ
yâtsath
H3341
to kindle
Conj | V-Hiphil-ConsecImperf-3mp
עֲלֵי/הֶ֛ם
ʻal
H5921
upon
Prep | Suff
אֶֽת
ʼêth
H853
Obj.
DirObjM
הַ/צְּרִ֖יחַ
tsᵉrîyach
H6877
stronghold
Art | N-ms
בָּ/אֵ֑שׁ
ʼêsh
H784
fire
Prep | N-cs
וַ/יָּמֻ֜תוּ
mûwth
H4191
to die
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3mp
גַּ֣ם
gam
H1571
also
DirObjM
כָּל
kôl
H3605
all
N-ms
אַנְשֵׁ֧י
ʼîysh
H376
man
N-mp
מִֽגְדַּל
migdâl
H4026
tower
N-cs
שְׁכֶ֛ם
Shᵉkem
H7927
Shechem
N-proper
כְּ/אֶ֖לֶף
ʼeleph
H505
thousand
Prep | Adj
אִ֥ישׁ
ʼîysh
H376
man
N-ms
וְ/אִשָּֽׁה
ʼishshâh
H802
woman
Conj | N-fs
Hebrew Word Study
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Hebrew Word Reference — Judges 9:49
וַ/יִּכְרְת֨וּ
kârath
H3772
"to cut"
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3mp
This Hebrew word means to cut or destroy something, but it also has a special meaning related to making a covenant or agreement. In Genesis 15:18, God makes a covenant with Abram, symbolized by cutting animals in half, showing the seriousness of the promise. This word is used to describe important agreements and alliances.
Definition: : cut/fell 1) to cut, cut off, cut down, cut off a body part, cut out, eliminate, kill, cut a covenant 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to cut off 1a1a) to cut off a body part, behead 1a2) to cut down 1a3) to hew 1a4) to cut or make a covenant 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be cut off 1b2) to be cut down 1b3) to be chewed 1b4) to be cut off, fail 1c) (Pual) 1c1) to be cut off 1c2) to be cut down 1d) (Hiphil) 1d1) to cut off 1d2) to cut off, destroy 1d3) to cut down, destroy 1d4) to take away 1d5) to permit to perish 1e) (Hophal) cut off
Usage: Occurs in 280 OT verses. KJV: be chewed, be con-(feder-) ate, covenant, cut (down, off), destroy, fail, feller, be freed, hew (down), make a league (covenant), [idiom] lose, perish, [idiom] utterly, [idiom] want. See also: Genesis 9:11; 1 Samuel 24:6; Psalms 12:4.
גַם
gam
H1571
"also"
Adv
Also means 'even' or 'too', used for emphasis or to connect ideas, like 'both...and' or 'neither...nor'. It can introduce a climax or show contrast.
Definition: 1) also, even, indeed, moreover, yea 1a) also, moreover (giving emphasis) 1b) neither, neither...nor (with negative) 1c) even (for stress) 1d) indeed, yea (introducing climax) 1e) also (of correspondence or retribution) 1f) but, yet, though (adversative) 1g) even, yea, yea though (with 'when' in hypothetical case) 2) (TWOT) again, alike
Usage: Occurs in 661 OT verses. KJV: again, alike, also, (so much) as (soon), both (so)...and, but, either...or, even, for all, (in) likewise (manner), moreover, nay...neither, one, then(-refore), though, what, with, yea. See also: Genesis 3:6; Exodus 19:9; 1 Samuel 14:21.
כָּל
kôl
H3605
"all"
N-ms
The Hebrew word for 'all' or 'everything' is used throughout the Bible, like in Genesis 1:31, where God sees all He has made as very good. It encompasses the entirety of something, whether people, things, or situations.
Definition: 1) all, the whole 1a) all, the whole of 1b) any, each, every, anything 1c) totality, everything Aramaic equivalent: kol (כֹּל "all" H3606)
Usage: Occurs in 4242 OT verses. KJV: (in) all (manner, (ye)), altogether, any (manner), enough, every (one, place, thing), howsoever, as many as, (no-) thing, ought, whatsoever, (the) whole, whoso(-ever). See also: Genesis 1:21; Genesis 17:10; Genesis 41:40.
הָ/עָ֜ם
ʻam
H5971
"Amaw"
Art | N-ms
A people or nation is what this Hebrew word represents, like the nation of Israel in Exodus 33:13. It can also mean a tribe, troops, or attendants, and is used to describe a group of people gathered together. The word is often used to refer to the people of God.
Definition: This name means nation, people
Usage: Occurs in 1655 OT verses. KJV: folk, men, nation, people. See also: Genesis 11:6; Exodus 16:4; Leviticus 17:9.
אִ֣ישׁ
ʼîysh
H376
"man"
N-ms
The Hebrew word for man, referring to a male person or individual, is used in the Bible to describe humans in contrast to God or animals, as seen in Genesis and Psalms. It can also mean husband or servant. In the KJV, it is translated as man or male.
Definition: : man 1) man 1a) man, male (in contrast to woman, female) 1b) husband 1c) human being, person (in contrast to God) 1d) servant 1e) mankind 1f) champion 1g) great man 2) whosoever 3) each (adjective)
Usage: Occurs in 1851 OT verses. KJV: also, another, any (man), a certain, [phrase] champion, consent, each, every (one), fellow, (foot-, husband-) man, (good-, great, mighty) man, he, high (degree), him (that is), husband, man(-kind), [phrase] none, one, people, person, [phrase] steward, what (man) soever, whoso(-ever), worthy. Compare H802 (אִשָּׁה). See also: Genesis 2:23; Genesis 42:25; Exodus 32:23.
שׂוֹכֹ֗/ה
sôwk
H7754
"branch"
N-ms | Suff
A branch is a part of a tree, like the boughs mentioned in Ezekiel 31:3. This word describes a limb or a section of a tree that is intertwined with others.
Definition: branch, brushwood, bough Also means: so.khah (שׂוֹכָה "branch" H7754B)
Usage: Occurs in 2 OT verses. KJV: bough. See also: Judges 9:48; Judges 9:49.
וַ/יֵּ֨לְכ֜וּ
yâlak
H3212
"to walk"
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3mp
To walk or go, this verb means to move from one place to another, used literally or figuratively, as in to live or die, or to lead someone.
Definition: 1) to go, walk, come 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to go, walk, come, depart, proceed, move, go away 1a2) to die, live, manner of life (fig.) 1b) (Hiphil) to lead, bring, lead away, carry, cause to walk
Usage: Occurs in 936 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] again, away, bear, bring, carry (away), come (away), depart, flow, [phrase] follow(-ing), get (away, hence, him), (cause to, made) go (away, -ing, -ne, one's way, out), grow, lead (forth), let down, march, prosper, [phrase] pursue, cause to run, spread, take away (-journey), vanish, (cause to) walk(-ing), wax, [idiom] be weak. See also: Genesis 3:14; Exodus 5:8; Deuteronomy 28:14.
אַחֲרֵ֤י
ʼachar
H310
"after"
Prep
Achar means backwards or after, used to describe something that happens later or in the rear. It is used in various senses in the Bible, including in 1 Kings 12:18.
Definition: 1) after the following part, behind (of place), hinder, afterwards (of time) 1a) as an adverb 1a1) behind (of place) 1a2) afterwards (of time) 1b) as a preposition 1b1) behind, after (of place) 1b2) after (of time) 1b3) besides 1c) as a conjunction 1c) after that 1d) as a substantive 1d1) hinder part 1e) with other prepositions 1e1) from behind 1e2) from following after
Usage: Occurs in 664 OT verses. KJV: after (that, -ward), again, at, away from, back (from, -side), behind, beside, by, follow (after, -ing), forasmuch, from, hereafter, hinder end, [phrase] out (over) live, [phrase] persecute, posterity, pursuing, remnant, seeing, since, thence(-forth), when, with. See also: Genesis 5:4; Exodus 18:2; Joshua 8:14.
אֲבִימֶ֨לֶךְ֙
ʼĂbîymelek
H40
"Ahimelech"
N-proper
Abimelech was the name of two Philistine kings and two Israelites in the Bible, including a king who met Abraham and a priest who helped David. The name means 'my father is king'.
Definition: A man living at the time of United Monarchy, first mentioned at 2Sa.8.17; son of: Abiathar (H0054); brother of: Jonathan (H3083I) Another spelling of a.chi.me.lekh (אֲחִימֶ֫לֶךְ "Ahimelech" H0288I) § Abimelech = "Melek is father" or "my father is king" 1) king of Gerar in Abraham's time 2) king of Gath in David's time; maybe title of Philistine kings 3) son of Gideon by a concubine 4) priest, son of Abiathar
Usage: Occurs in 62 OT verses. KJV: Abimelech. See also: Genesis 20:2; Judges 9:20; Psalms 34:1.
וַ/יָּשִׂ֣ימוּ
sûwm
H7760
"to set"
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3mp
This Hebrew word means to put or place something, and is used in many different ways in the Bible, such as to appoint or determine something. It is first used in Genesis to describe God's creation. In the KJV, it is translated as 'appoint' or 'set' in various contexts.
Definition: : make/establish 1) to put, place, set, appoint, make 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to put, set, lay, put or lay upon, lay (violent) hands on 1a2) to set, direct, direct toward 1a2a) to extend (compassion) (fig) 1a3) to set, ordain, establish, found, appoint, constitute, make, determine, fix 1a4) to set, station, put, set in place, plant, fix 1a5) to make, make for, transform into, constitute, fashion, work, bring to pass, appoint, give 1b) (Hiphil) to set or make for a sign 1c) (Hophal) to be set
Usage: Occurs in 550 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] any wise, appoint, bring, call (a name), care, cast in, change, charge, commit, consider, convey, determine, [phrase] disguise, dispose, do, get, give, heap up, hold, impute, lay (down, up), leave, look, make (out), mark, [phrase] name, [idiom] on, ordain, order, [phrase] paint, place, preserve, purpose, put (on), [phrase] regard, rehearse, reward, (cause to) set (on, up), shew, [phrase] stedfastly, take, [idiom] tell, [phrase] tread down, (over-)turn, [idiom] wholly, work. See also: Genesis 2:8; Leviticus 20:5; 1 Samuel 21:13.
עַֽל
ʻal
H5921
"upon"
Prep
This Hebrew word means on or above something, like a physical object or a situation. It can also imply a sense of responsibility or accountability, as in being on behalf of someone.
Definition: prep 1) upon, on the ground of, according to, on account of, on behalf of, concerning, beside, in addition to, together with, beyond, above, over, by, on to, towards, to, against 1a) upon, on the ground of, on the basis of, on account of, because of, therefore, on behalf of, for the sake of, for, with, in spite of, notwithstanding, concerning, in the matter of, as regards 1b) above, beyond, over (of excess) 1c) above, over (of elevation or pre-eminence) 1d) upon, to, over to, unto, in addition to, together with, with (of addition) 1e) over (of suspension or extension) 1f) by, adjoining, next, at, over, around (of contiguity or proximity) 1g) down upon, upon, on, from, up upon, up to, towards, over towards, to, against (with verbs of motion) 1h) to (as a dative)
Usage: Occurs in 4493 OT verses. KJV: above, according to(-ly), after, (as) against, among, and, [idiom] as, at, because of, beside (the rest of), between, beyond the time, [idiom] both and, by (reason of), [idiom] had the charge of, concerning for, in (that), (forth, out) of, (from) (off), (up-) on, over, than, through(-out), to, touching, [idiom] with. See also: Genesis 1:2; Genesis 24:13; Genesis 41:33.
הַ/צְּרִ֔יחַ
tsᵉrîyach
H6877
"stronghold"
Art | N-ms
A stronghold was a secure fortress or underground room, often used for defense or storage. Its exact meaning is uncertain, but it refers to a place of safety and protection.
Definition: 1) excavation, underground chamber, cellar, underground room 1a) meaning uncertain
Usage: Occurs in 3 OT verses. KJV: high place, hold. See also: Judges 9:46; Judges 9:49; 1 Samuel 13:6.
וַ/יַּצִּ֧יתוּ
yâtsath
H3341
"to kindle"
Conj | V-Hiphil-ConsecImperf-3mp
To kindle means to start a fire or burn something, and can also mean to leave something desolate. It appears in various forms, including being kindled or setting something on fire.
Definition: 1) to kindle, burn, set on fire 1a) (Qal) to kindle 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be kindled 1b2) to be left desolate 1c) (Hiphil) to set on fire, kindle
Usage: Occurs in 28 OT verses. KJV: burn (up), be desolate, set (on) fire (fire), kindle. See also: Joshua 8:8; Jeremiah 11:16; Isaiah 9:17.
עֲלֵי/הֶ֛ם
ʻal
H5921
"upon"
Prep | Suff
This Hebrew word means on or above something, like a physical object or a situation. It can also imply a sense of responsibility or accountability, as in being on behalf of someone.
Definition: prep 1) upon, on the ground of, according to, on account of, on behalf of, concerning, beside, in addition to, together with, beyond, above, over, by, on to, towards, to, against 1a) upon, on the ground of, on the basis of, on account of, because of, therefore, on behalf of, for the sake of, for, with, in spite of, notwithstanding, concerning, in the matter of, as regards 1b) above, beyond, over (of excess) 1c) above, over (of elevation or pre-eminence) 1d) upon, to, over to, unto, in addition to, together with, with (of addition) 1e) over (of suspension or extension) 1f) by, adjoining, next, at, over, around (of contiguity or proximity) 1g) down upon, upon, on, from, up upon, up to, towards, over towards, to, against (with verbs of motion) 1h) to (as a dative)
Usage: Occurs in 4493 OT verses. KJV: above, according to(-ly), after, (as) against, among, and, [idiom] as, at, because of, beside (the rest of), between, beyond the time, [idiom] both and, by (reason of), [idiom] had the charge of, concerning for, in (that), (forth, out) of, (from) (off), (up-) on, over, than, through(-out), to, touching, [idiom] with. See also: Genesis 1:2; Genesis 24:13; Genesis 41:33.
אֶֽת
ʼêth
H853
"Obj."
DirObjM
In the original Hebrew, this word points out the object of a verb or preposition, like 'namely' or 'even'. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus. It's not directly translated in English, but helps clarify the meaning of sentences.
Definition: sign of the definite direct object, not translated in English but generally preceding and indicating the accusative Aramaic equivalent: yat (יָת "whom" H3487)
Usage: Occurs in 6782 OT verses. KJV: (as such unrepresented in English). See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 10:8; Genesis 19:21.
הַ/צְּרִ֖יחַ
tsᵉrîyach
H6877
"stronghold"
Art | N-ms
A stronghold was a secure fortress or underground room, often used for defense or storage. Its exact meaning is uncertain, but it refers to a place of safety and protection.
Definition: 1) excavation, underground chamber, cellar, underground room 1a) meaning uncertain
Usage: Occurs in 3 OT verses. KJV: high place, hold. See also: Judges 9:46; Judges 9:49; 1 Samuel 13:6.
בָּ/אֵ֑שׁ
ʼêsh
H784
"fire"
Prep | N-cs
Fire is a powerful symbol in the Bible, representing both God's anger and his refining presence, as seen in Deuteronomy 4:24 and Malachi 3:2-3. It is also used for cooking and warmth. This concept is central to many biblical stories.
Definition: 1) fire 1a) fire, flames 1b) supernatural fire (accompanying theophany) 1c) fire (for cooking, roasting, parching) 1d) altar-fire 1e) God's anger (fig.) Aramaic equivalent: esh (אֶשָּׁא "fire" H0785)
Usage: Occurs in 348 OT verses. KJV: burning, fiery, fire, flaming, hot. See also: Genesis 15:17; Joshua 7:15; Psalms 11:6.
וַ/יָּמֻ֜תוּ
mûwth
H4191
"to die"
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3mp
In the Bible, this Hebrew word means to die, either literally or as a punishment, and is used in books like Genesis and Exodus. It can also mean to perish or be killed. This concept is seen in the story of Adam and Eve, where death enters the world as a result of sin.
Definition: 1) to die, kill, have one executed 1a)(Qal) 1a1) to die 1a2) to die (as penalty), be put to death 1a3) to die, perish (of a nation) 1a4) to die prematurely (by neglect of wise moral conduct) 1b) (Polel) to kill, put to death, dispatch 1c) (Hiphil) to kill, put to death 1d) (Hophal) 1d1) to be killed, be put to death 1d1a) to die prematurely
Usage: Occurs in 695 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] at all, [idiom] crying, (be) dead (body, man, one), (put to, worthy of) death, destroy(-er), (cause to, be like to, must) die, kill, necro(-mancer), [idiom] must needs, slay, [idiom] surely, [idiom] very suddenly, [idiom] in (no) wise. See also: Genesis 2:17; Exodus 21:18; Numbers 35:21.
גַּ֣ם
gam
H1571
"also"
DirObjM
Also means 'even' or 'too', used for emphasis or to connect ideas, like 'both...and' or 'neither...nor'. It can introduce a climax or show contrast.
Definition: 1) also, even, indeed, moreover, yea 1a) also, moreover (giving emphasis) 1b) neither, neither...nor (with negative) 1c) even (for stress) 1d) indeed, yea (introducing climax) 1e) also (of correspondence or retribution) 1f) but, yet, though (adversative) 1g) even, yea, yea though (with 'when' in hypothetical case) 2) (TWOT) again, alike
Usage: Occurs in 661 OT verses. KJV: again, alike, also, (so much) as (soon), both (so)...and, but, either...or, even, for all, (in) likewise (manner), moreover, nay...neither, one, then(-refore), though, what, with, yea. See also: Genesis 3:6; Exodus 19:9; 1 Samuel 14:21.
כָּל
kôl
H3605
"all"
N-ms
The Hebrew word for 'all' or 'everything' is used throughout the Bible, like in Genesis 1:31, where God sees all He has made as very good. It encompasses the entirety of something, whether people, things, or situations.
Definition: 1) all, the whole 1a) all, the whole of 1b) any, each, every, anything 1c) totality, everything Aramaic equivalent: kol (כֹּל "all" H3606)
Usage: Occurs in 4242 OT verses. KJV: (in) all (manner, (ye)), altogether, any (manner), enough, every (one, place, thing), howsoever, as many as, (no-) thing, ought, whatsoever, (the) whole, whoso(-ever). See also: Genesis 1:21; Genesis 17:10; Genesis 41:40.
אַנְשֵׁ֧י
ʼîysh
H376
"man"
N-mp
The Hebrew word for man, referring to a male person or individual, is used in the Bible to describe humans in contrast to God or animals, as seen in Genesis and Psalms. It can also mean husband or servant. In the KJV, it is translated as man or male.
Definition: : man 1) man 1a) man, male (in contrast to woman, female) 1b) husband 1c) human being, person (in contrast to God) 1d) servant 1e) mankind 1f) champion 1g) great man 2) whosoever 3) each (adjective)
Usage: Occurs in 1851 OT verses. KJV: also, another, any (man), a certain, [phrase] champion, consent, each, every (one), fellow, (foot-, husband-) man, (good-, great, mighty) man, he, high (degree), him (that is), husband, man(-kind), [phrase] none, one, people, person, [phrase] steward, what (man) soever, whoso(-ever), worthy. Compare H802 (אִשָּׁה). See also: Genesis 2:23; Genesis 42:25; Exodus 32:23.
מִֽגְדַּל
migdâl
H4026
"tower"
N-cs
Migdal means tower, referring to a tall structure or elevated stage. It can also symbolize a bed of flowers in the Bible.
Definition: 1) tower 1a) tower 1b) elevated stage, pulpit 1c) raised bed
Usage: Occurs in 44 OT verses. KJV: castle, flower, tower. Compare the names following. See also: Genesis 11:4; Nehemiah 3:26; Psalms 48:13.
שְׁכֶ֛ם
Shᵉkem
H7927
"Shechem"
N-proper
Shechem refers to a city in Palestine and a man who lived during the time of the Patriarchs, mentioned in Genesis 33:19. He was the son of Hamor, a Hivite chieftain. The city was located between Mount Ebal and Mount Gerizim.
Definition: A man living at the time of the Patriarchs, first mentioned at Gen.33.19; son of: Hamor (H2544) § Shechem = "back" or "shoulder" 1) son of Hamor, the chieftain of the Hivites at Shechem at the time of Jacob's arrival 2) a city in Manasseh; located in a valley between Mount Ebal and Mount Gerizim, 34 miles (54 km) north of Jerusalem and 7 miles (10.5 km) south- east of Samaria
Usage: Occurs in 54 OT verses. KJV: Shechem. See also: Genesis 12:6; Judges 9:6; Psalms 60:8.
כְּ/אֶ֖לֶף
ʼeleph
H505
"thousand"
Prep | Adj
A thousand, as in Exodus 20:6 where God shows love to thousands of people. It represents a large number or a company of people under one leader, like an army or a group of soldiers.
Definition: : thousand 1) a thousand 1a) as numeral 2) a thousand, company 2a) as a company of men under one leader, troops
Usage: Occurs in 390 OT verses. KJV: thousand. See also: Genesis 20:16; Joshua 3:4; 2 Kings 18:23.
אִ֥ישׁ
ʼîysh
H376
"man"
N-ms
The Hebrew word for man, referring to a male person or individual, is used in the Bible to describe humans in contrast to God or animals, as seen in Genesis and Psalms. It can also mean husband or servant. In the KJV, it is translated as man or male.
Definition: : man 1) man 1a) man, male (in contrast to woman, female) 1b) husband 1c) human being, person (in contrast to God) 1d) servant 1e) mankind 1f) champion 1g) great man 2) whosoever 3) each (adjective)
Usage: Occurs in 1851 OT verses. KJV: also, another, any (man), a certain, [phrase] champion, consent, each, every (one), fellow, (foot-, husband-) man, (good-, great, mighty) man, he, high (degree), him (that is), husband, man(-kind), [phrase] none, one, people, person, [phrase] steward, what (man) soever, whoso(-ever), worthy. Compare H802 (אִשָּׁה). See also: Genesis 2:23; Genesis 42:25; Exodus 32:23.
וְ/אִשָּֽׁה
ʼishshâh
H802
"woman"
Conj | N-fs
The Hebrew word for woman, used to describe a female person, wife, or animal, appears in many biblical passages, including Genesis and Exodus, and is often translated as woman, wife, or female.
Definition: : woman 1) woman, wife, female 1a) woman (opposite of man) 1b) wife (woman married to a man) 1c) female (of animals) 1d) each, every (pronoun)
Usage: Occurs in 686 OT verses. KJV: (adulter) ess, each, every, female, [idiom] many, [phrase] none, one, [phrase] together, wife, woman. Often unexpressed in English. See also: Genesis 2:22; Genesis 34:4; Numbers 5:12.
Study Notes — Judges 9:49
Show Verse Quote Highlights
Context — The Fall of Shechem
47And when Abimelech was told that all the leaders in the tower of Shechem were gathered there,
48he and all his men went up to Mount Zalmon. Abimelech took his axe in his hand and cut a branch from the trees, which he lifted to his shoulder, saying to his men, “Hurry and do what you have seen me do.”
49So each man also cut his own branch and followed Abimelech. Then they piled the branches against the inner chamber and set it on fire above them, killing everyone in the tower of Shechem, about a thousand men and women.
50Then Abimelech went to Thebez, encamped against it, and captured it. 51But there was a strong tower inside the city, and all the men, women, and leaders of the city fled there. They locked themselves in and went up to the roof of the tower.Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Galatians 5:15 | But if you keep on biting and devouring one another, watch out, or you will be consumed by one another. |
| 2 | James 3:16 | For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every evil practice. |
| 3 | Judges 9:20 | But if not, may fire come from Abimelech and consume the leaders of Shechem and Beth-millo, and may fire come from the leaders of Shechem and Beth-millo and consume Abimelech.” |
| 4 | Judges 9:15 | But the thornbush replied, ‘If you really are anointing me as king over you, come and find refuge in my shade. But if not, may fire come out of the thornbush and consume the cedars of Lebanon.’ |
Judges 9:49 Summary
[Judges 9:49 describes a tragic event where about a thousand men and women died in a tower in Shechem, which was set on fire by Abimelech and his men. This event shows the devastating consequences of rebellion against God, as seen in 1 Samuel 8:7. The people in the tower thought they were safe, but their refuge became a trap, demonstrating the importance of trusting in God's plan, as seen in Proverbs 3:5-6. We can learn from this story by seeking God's will and surrendering to His sovereignty, as seen in Romans 11:33-36.]
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the tower of Shechem in this verse?
The tower of Shechem was a place of refuge for the people, but in this case, it became a trap, resulting in the death of about a thousand men and women, as seen in Judges 9:49, a consequence of their rebellion against God, similar to the rebellion in 1 Samuel 8:7.
Why did Abimelech and his men use branches to set the tower on fire?
Abimelech and his men used branches to set the tower on fire because it was a readily available material, and the dry branches would have ignited easily, allowing them to quickly surround and burn the tower, as described in Judges 9:48-49, demonstrating Abimelech's cunning and ruthless tactics.
How does this event relate to the overall story of the Israelites?
This event in Judges 9:49 is part of the larger narrative of the Israelites' cycle of sin, judgment, and deliverance, as seen in the book of Judges, where the Israelites repeatedly turn away from God and face consequences, such as in Judges 2:10-19, and then cry out to God for rescue.
What can we learn from the death of the people in the tower of Shechem?
The death of the people in the tower of Shechem serves as a warning about the dangers of rebellion against God and the importance of seeking His will, as seen in Proverbs 3:5-6, and trusting in His sovereignty, as seen in Romans 11:33-36.
Reflection Questions
- What are some ways that I might be rebelling against God's will in my own life, and how can I surrender to His plan?
- How can I trust in God's sovereignty, even when circumstances seem uncertain or difficult, like the Israelites in Judges 9:49?
- What are some 'towers' in my life where I might be seeking refuge or security, rather than trusting in God, and how can I dismantle them?
- In what ways can I apply the lessons of Judges 9:49 to my relationships with others, and how can I demonstrate God's love and mercy to those around me?
Gill's Exposition on Judges 9:49
And all the people likewise cut down every man his bough, and followed Abimelech,.... With their boughs on their shoulders, so that they were men that seemed to be as trees walking: and put them to
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Judges 9:49
And all the people likewise cut down every man his bough, and followed Abimelech, and put them to the hold, and set the hold on fire upon them; so that all the men of the tower of Shechem died also,
Trapp's Commentary on Judges 9:49
Judges 9:49 And all the people likewise cut down every man his bough, and followed Abimelech, and put [them] to the hold, and set the hold on fire upon them; so that all the men of the tower of Shechem died also, about a thousand men and women.Ver. 49. All the men of the tower of Shechem.] Who were, probably, those men of Millo that had helped to make Abimelech king; and so Jotham’ s parable was fulfilled.
Cambridge Bible on Judges 9:49
49. upon them] See Judges 9:46 n.
Whedon's Commentary on Judges 9:49
49. Set the hold on fire upon them — Burned down the house of Baal-berith, so that those who had fled for refuge into its cellars and secret holds perished under its falling ruins.
Sermons on Judges 9:49
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
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A Divided Heart by C.H. Spurgeon | C.H. Spurgeon addresses the issue of a divided heart, emphasizing that such a condition leads to spiritual faultiness both individually and within the church. He warns that a divid |
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(Saved Through the Fire) 02 - the Path of True Salvation by Milton Green | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of repeatedly hearing and understanding the message of God. He explains that hearing the message multiple times helps to brea |
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Taranaki Bible Conference January 19-2012 - 3 of 5 Sermons by Keith Daniel | In this sermon, the preacher discusses the consequences of finding Christ in a home. He emphasizes the importance of free will and how it can affect one's relationship with God. Th |
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Love the Sinner; Hate the Sin by Shane Idleman | This sermon emphasizes the importance of true repentance and following Jesus wholeheartedly. It challenges the audience to recognize their need for God's mercy and to prioritize a |
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The Dangers of Self Deception Part 1 - an Unbridled Tongue by Phil Beach Jr. | Phil Beach Jr. addresses the critical issue of self-deception in the church, emphasizing that one of the most significant dangers believers face is the unbridled tongue, which refl |
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A Desperate Plea for Unity by Shane Idleman | Shane Idleman passionately addresses the urgent need for unity within the church, drawing from the teachings of 1 Corinthians. He emphasizes that believers, while called to be sain |
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Watchman or Gossip? Contentiously Contending - 7 by Anton Bosch | Anton Bosch preaches on the importance of reacting to the fall of the wicked with mourning and intercession, rather than delighting in scandal or spreading rumors. He emphasizes th |